Psalm 111 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 111 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
Verse 2Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.
Verse 3Full of honor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever.
Verse 4He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds; the Lord is gracious and merciful.
Verse 5He provides food for those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant.
Verse 6He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the heritage of the nations.
Verse 7The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy.
Verse 8They are established forever and ever, to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
Verse 9He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant forever. Holy and awesome is his name.
Verse 10The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever.
Devotion
Trustworthiness has taken a serious hit in the past year — particularly in the realm of companies and church leaders. Corruption and abuse have greatly reduced our confidence in entities that we have trusted and depended upon.
The words of the psalmist, “The works of God's hands are faithful and just, all his precepts are trustworthy,” are reassuring words in these uncertain times. God reveals to us in the Scriptures, his love, grace, care for the poor and his law, which is both a guide for our living and a revealer of our needs. By living close to God, we can know God is trustworthy.
Our God may not give us all we want or desire, but He loves us, supports us and inspires us to live productively.
Prayer
Dear God, in the world where there is much betrayal, bless us with the gift of trust in you.